This has been a particularly challenging month, with prolonged dry conditions placing significant pressure on the course. Turf recovery has been limited, and our priority has been to protect plant health and direct available water to the areas of greatest need. Despite these conditions, the greens have continued to show encouraging progress.

Alongside managing the immediate challenges presented by the weather, we are continuing to work through our longer-term course improvement programme, with priorities being identified and addressed across the course as conditions and resources allow.

Greens

We have continued with our greens maintenance programme throughout the month. Despite the severity of the summer weather, further improvement has been evident and the greens continue to show the most encouraging progress across the course.

Irrigation remains our most significant operational challenge. The greens are currently being managed through targeted hand-watering with hoses, supported by a considerable contribution from member volunteers. This work has been essential in helping us maintain turf health during the drought.

Wider Course

Very little routine mowing has been required away from the greens because growth has slowed significantly in the dry conditions. This has allowed the team to redirect time towards strimming and cutting down areas of long rough that had become overgrown, helping to improve the overall presentation of the course.

Bunkers

Work has begun to turn over and loosen compacted bunker sand, improving its consistency and playability. This is a substantial programme of work, and volunteers have already provided valuable assistance. We are also continuing to remove weeds and stones as work progresses.

Additional Works

  • The bell on the 14th hole has been relocated to the right-hand side of the fairway.
  • Several rotten steps at the 9th tee have been replaced to improve safety.
  • Rope has been installed behind and to the left of the 1st green to discourage players from crossing towards the 13th tee when leaving the 12th green.

Thank You

A sincere thank you to every member who has volunteered their time. Your support is making a significant difference to both the condition and presentation of the course, particularly during this demanding period.

Thank you also for your continued patience and understanding while we manage the impact of the drought and carry out these improvements. The Greens Team remains committed to presenting the best course possible for the enjoyment of members and visitors.

Danny Gallagher
Course Manager
St Austell Golf Club